Environmentally Friendly Albuterol Inhaler (Cont.)

Albuterol Shortages

In response to the FDA's ruling that CFC-containing albuterol products must be discontinued by December 31, 2008, many manufacturers have stopped making the old inhalers altogether. This has led to a shortage of the older inhalers, which is not likely to improve. Since albuterol is not a medication the people can "go without," they must switch to one of the newer HFA inhalers. It is possible that a shortage of the new inhalers may occur, although the FDA has determined that there is an adequate supply of the new inhalers.
 

Switching to an Environmentally Friendly Albuterol Inhaler

Technically, none of the new HFA inhalers are equivalent to the old inhalers (nor are they equivalent to each other). This means that a new prescription will be required. Ask your pharmacist about helping you to get a new prescription (it will probably take a phone call to your healthcare provider). Be prepared to pay more for your new inhaler, even if you have insurance. Because they products are "brand-name" products, they carry higher co-pays in many insurance plans.
 
If you do not have insurance and cannot afford the new inhalers, talk to your healthcare provider about patient assistance programs from the manufacturers of these inhalers. You may be able to receive assistance from the manufacturers to help pay for the inhalers.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;